Southampton new boy Jay Rodriguez will be a success in the Premier League, claim Rickie Lambert and Jack Cork.

Jay Rod to excell

The Saints signed the 22-year-old from Burnley earlier this summer for a record undisclosed fee following his impressive performances in the 2011/12 season.

Saints striker Lambert, who was named alongside Rodriguez in the PFA Championship Team of the Year, is confident that the youngster will prove to be a success at St Mary’s.

“When I played against him last year, I felt he was a very good player,” said Lambert on Southampton’sofficial website.

“His team didn’t do so well down here when we played them, but I still think he had a good game, and he had a very good game up at their place against us, so I think he’s a good signing for us.

“He’s a good, young English talent and I’m very much looking forward to playing alongside him.”

Cork featured alongside Rodriguez at Burnley in 2010/11 and had words of praise for his former team-mate.

“Jay Rod is a striker who’s got a bit of everything really,” he enthused.

“What I saw of him when I played at Burnley is that he’s quick, he’s strong, a good header of the ball, and he can score a variety of goals as well not just inside the box, but a few outside as well.

“Like all of the lads he’ll be trying to break into the side, so I think pre-season training will be as sharp as anything because everyone will want to prove that they can do it at this level.

“It’s one of the best leagues in the world and everyone wants to show that they can play there.

“Hopefully he can replicate his form here and get some goals in the Premier League which would be good for him and the club too.”